Infrastructure investment drives enquiry

PURCHASER and tenant enquiry has lifted across Toowoomba’s industrial sector in the first quarter of 2017 as major transport infrastructure lifts the profile of the city.

Progress on the $1.4 billion Second Range Crossing, planning for the Inland Rail freight corridor between Melbourne and Brisbane and the international potential of Wellcamp Airport was driving business interest.

LJ Hooker Commercial Toowoomba’s Luke Darr said owners of prime industrial facilities throughout the city had attracted many enquiries from owners and tenants looking to upgrade.

Mr Darr said enquiry at the start of the year bode well for the Toowoomba market.

“There was a steady end to 2016 in terms of tenant enquiry but we’ve seen that interest pick up through the opening months of 2017,” Mr Darr said.

“Rents have remained fairly steady across all precincts at the start of 2017 which has helped instil confidence amongst tenants.”

Mr Darr said the city’s profile was attracting enquiries from many business operators whom recognise Toowoomba as a viable alternative to Brisbane for logistics operators.

“The investment in infrastructure is really underpinning the enquiry for both sales and leasing around the city, particularly in the areas of the FKG developments of Charlton and Witmack.” he said.

“Wellcamp Airport is proving a great outlet for the Downs and Moree Plains primary producers to service to China.

“We’re going to see more demand for chilled storage facilities to accommodate this demand.

“The Second Range Crossing will provide secure distribution lines to Brisbane port and, when developed, the Inland Rail will open up the Downs to Australia’s busiest port.

“Many businesses are recognising the imminent impact all this investment is having in the region and wanting to secure their position now.”

If you would like to find out about industrial opportunities in Toowoomba, contact Mr Darr at LJ Hooker Commercial Toowoomba on 0487 328 333.